Ingredient
Palm and/or Canola Oil
What is Palm and/or Canola Oil?
Palm and/or canola oil is a blend that may contain both palm oil and canola oil, depending on the manufacturer's formulation. Palm oil is derived from the fruit of the oil palm tree, commonly refined to remove colors and odors. Canola oil is extracted from rapeseed, bred to be low in toxic erucic acid.
This combination is used in foods as a versatile cooking oil due to its relatively high smoke point and neutrality in flavor. Palm oil tends to be high in saturated fats, while canola oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids. The health impacts are debated, as palm oil's saturated fat content is linked to higher cholesterol levels, whereas canola oil is often considered healthier due to its polyunsaturated fat content.
When you see 'palm and/or canola oil' on a label, it usually means the manufacturer may change the oil composition based on availability, price, or desired product texture without updating the label.
Commonly found in: snack foods, baked goods, margarine, frying oils, processed foods
What to watch
- Palm oil production can lead to deforestation and habitat destruction.
- High saturated fat content in palm oil may raise cholesterol levels.
Benefits
- Canola oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health.
Both palm and canola oil are considered Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food products.
Research shows mixed findings; palm oil's saturated fats are a concern, while canola oil is often seen as a healthier alternative.
Both palm and canola oils are plant-derived and generally considered vegan.
Sources: Palm Oil and Canola Oil
Scout's take
Palm oil contributes saturated fat and has deforestation concerns; canola is a refined high-omega-6 seed oil.
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